How aging affects gut bacteria and Clostridioides difficile infections
Official title: The microbiome and aging in Clostridioides difficile infection
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11109431 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the bacteria in our gut change as we get older and how these changes might make older adults more likely to get Clostridioides difficile infections, with the goal of finding ways to help keep them healthier.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2022 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $757,662 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI162787-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11109431 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who are at risk for Clostridioides difficile infections, particularly those who have recently taken antibiotics.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger and have no history of antibiotic use or Clostridioides difficile infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between the gut microbiome and aging, particularly how changes in gut bacteria can influence the risk and severity of Clostridioides difficile infections in older adults. The study aims to understand the alterations in the microbiota that occur with age and how these changes may lead to increased susceptibility to infections and related complications. By examining these interactions, the researchers hope to develop therapeutic strategies that can improve health outcomes for elderly patients suffering from these infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments and preventive measures for Clostridioides difficile infections in older adults.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of the microbiome in various infections, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Young, Vincent B — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Young, Vincent B
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.